Pre-War Cards

‘It’s In The Details’

1936 Cafes Gilbert Overview

These cards were issued by Cafes Gilbert, a coffee manufacturer based in France. An international release, they are difficult to find in the U.S.

Like other international sets, many series’ made up one large set. Most of the cards pictured non-sports subjects. However, the third series from a set, believed to be distributed in 1936, contained sports cards. The cards featured colorful cartoon images as well as a brief advertisement on the backs for Cafes Gilbert, mentioning that they had factories in Paris and Poitiers, which is in west-central France.

Pictures of all athletes shown are generic in nature and are not named or otherwise identifiable.

Among the sports cards early images in boxing, tennis, and wrestling. Other sports featured are rugby, skiing, and more.

Stock for the ‘cards’ are paper thin. Despite that, many are found in excellent condition. Still, they are easily susceptible to damage.

1936 Cafes Gilbert Checklist

1. Boxing
2. Cycling
3. Running
4. Rugby
5. Swimming
6. Wrestling
7. Pole Vault
8. Field Hockey
9. Tennis
10. Shot Put
11. Rowing
12. Skiing